Adjustment is for those who have done better than expected in their A-levels and have exceeded their university offer (by say, getting AAA instead of AAB). In that instance, a student can enter adjustment and apply to study on a different (the aim being ‘better’) course, at a different university.

Can a student use adjustment to get on a different course at the same university?

In theory: yes. In practice, it wouldn’t be the way to go. Instead, a student wishing to change their course while staying at the same institution, would be better to call up the university directly and arrange it that way. It would be more efficient than using the adjustment system.

How long do I have to consider my decision?

Adjustment can be utilised from results day (August 15) until the end of the month. This said, it all happens in the space of a few days, so register your interest immediately or face disheartening calls where you’ll find no vacancies. Once you’ve registered for adjustment and your first choice offer has changed status from ‘conditional’ to ‘unconditional’’ you have five calendar days to make a decision. Tick, tick, tick …

Five 24 hour periods. But you needn’t dig out a stop watch – your Ucas account will run a timer to let you know exactly how long is left until the shutters are pulled down on your window of opportunity.

Do I have to go through adjustment if I get better grades?

Not at all. If you were expected to get ABC and ended up with ABB: congratulations! If you’re happy with your current offer, don’t feel obliged to choose a seemingly more prestigious course. It’s entirely optional.

I think adjustment could be for me. But will it affect my current offer?

If you register for adjustment, your current first choice won’t be affected until you make the decision to accept a position elsewhere. If you decide to register for adjustment but find nowhere else suits you, you won’t lose your place with your original first choice university.

Unlike Clearing, there is no list. You find your course the old-fashioned way, by telephoning universities and asking if they’ll have you.

The University of Sheffield, a member of the Russell Group, is taking a unique approach by letting students preregister their interest, which makes things a little easier. Any student looking to upgrade to Sheffield can make their interest known at sheffield.ac.uk/gohigher.

If adjustment remains a mystery, or you need a little help with the process, call the Exam Results Helpline, on 0808 100 8000. Explain your situation and they'll calmly talk you through your options and comment impartially on your situation. They won't find a place or course for you, nor is it their job to, but an advisor will help you make up your mind about what to do.

So what do I say when I call a university?

When you get through to the university, immediately explain that you've done better than expected (state your results) and consequently, you're looking to use adjustment to find a new course, naming your preference. Enquire about vacancies. Be succinct: you'll want to be off the phone quickly if nothing is available.

Spare a thought for the operator on the end of the line. They'll be speaking to hundreds of panicked students on results day. Aid them by being transparent and articulate.

What is this ‘ABB cap’ I keep hearing about?

The Government have instigated a policy which means universities are free to recruit as many students as they wish who achieve ABB or better in their A-levels. In theory, this means that if you perform better than expected and score ABB or higher, a university is more likely to recruit you than before.

However, it doesn’t necessarily mean there are more places available. Although last year saw a rise on the 500 or so students who entered university through adjustment in 2011, only 1,344 students landed their place through adjustment in 2012.

Consider, too, that the lowering of the cap from AAB to ABB could mean that students who wish to upgrade have more rivals than before. Also, although universities are legally allowed to enrol more students, there is no guarantee that they have the space, funds or desire to do so. The lowered cap doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a better chance of securing a place through adjustment.

Research, research, research. Given the five-day limit, you won’t really have time to find out which universities suit and make the thousands of calls. If you’re feeling pleased about your exams (or even – whisper it – confident), look into courses you previously wanted to apply for, but didn’t think you had a chance at. Then, if it goes well on August 15, your main worry will be dialling the numbers correctly.

What will I need for adjustment?

Working internet, a calm head, your Ucas details to hand and the list of courses you want to call up.

So what happens if I accept an offer?

If you accept an offer through adjustment, you relinquish your original first choice and you’ll go to your new institution.

…and if I don’t?

It’s like it never happened and everything stays the way it was before the whole thrill of adjustment began.

Few. Adjustment pushes students to be optimistic and try for a better course.

However, as so few places can be gained through it, the process may be a waste of time for many, and could build expectations which are later deflated.

It should also be noted that getting a last-minute place on a course means you’ll be bottom of the pile for accommodation and there will be the hassle of reorganising student finance. But in reality these concerns should be minimal.